If women don't want to be raped they shouldn't drink too much, says Hong Kong official

Secretary for Security Lai Tung-kwok was presenting figures on crime in the city for the first quarter, which showed that rape cases soared 60 percent, when he made the comments.

"All of these (rape) cases happened between those who know each other. They are either friends, close friends or they just met a few hours ago," Mr Lai said during the presentation yesterday.

"Some of these cases also involved the victims being raped after drinking quite a lot of alcohol. So I would appeal that young ladies should not drink too much," Mr Lai said.

Angry Twitter and Facebook users blasted Mr Lai's comments.

"Hong Kong Secretary for Security advises that 'young ladies not drink too much' after rise in rapes. Or, gosh, maybe tell men not to rape?" Hong Kong-based Twitter user Miss O'Kistic said on her feed.

"Doesn't matter if the woman has been drinking or dressing 'provocatively'. Rape and Sexual Violence against Women are never ok!!" Facebook user Noreen Mir wrote on the wall of protest group SlutWalk Hong Kong.

Women's rights campaigners said Mr Lai should retract his remarks and concentrate on preventing sex crimes and arresting attackers.

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